Chicago City Wire

CHICAGO – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, and several Illinois congressional representatives have announced $15 million in federal funding for the Charge Up Chicago! project. This initiative aims to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across the city.

The grant, awarded through the Federal Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Program, will support a comprehensive strategy focusing on equitable distribution of EV charging stations, community engagement, electric-mobility education, and workforce development.

“As we electrify transportation across the country, we must strive to build smarter, faster charging infrastructure in Illinois. Our commitment to reducing carbon emissions and combating the climate crisis is unwavering, and this initiative stands as a testament to that dedication,” said Senate Majority Whip Durbin. “This funding will propel the decarbonization of our transportation sector while engaging Chicagoans in the process and expanding our workforce.”

Senator Duckworth added, “Expanding access to reliable charging stations for electric vehicles helps lower fuel costs and reduce emissions across our state. I look forward to continuing to work alongside Senator Durbin as we keep working to establish Illinois as a leader in electric vehicles and make EV use more accessible for all Illinoisans.”

Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the importance of this investment: “This federal investment is a critical step toward making electric vehicles accessible to all Chicagoans, regardless of where they live. These funds will not only further our Climate Action Plan but also ensure that our communities—especially those underserved—have the infrastructure needed to participate in the clean energy transition.”

Durbin and Duckworth have consistently supported federal investment in EV technology, including advocating for the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This legislation includes significant funding for battery manufacturing, research, and building a network of EV charging stations.

Representative Jan Schakowsky highlighted her personal connection with EVs: “As the overjoyed owner of a Chevy Bolt, I know the critical role that electric vehicles play in the fight against climate change. The Department of Transportation’s $15 million investment to expand EV charging access will improve air quality not only in our community but across the nation.”

Rep. Danny Davis noted the broader impact: “This $15 million in federal funding marks a significant step forward in ensuring that all communities, especially those historically underserved, have access to clean and sustainable transportation.”

Other representatives echoed these sentiments. Rep. Robin Kelley stressed the need for equitable access throughout Chicago: “We must expand access to charging stations throughout the city.” Rep. Sean Casten pointed out economic benefits: “Electric vehicles not only reduce costs for Illinois drivers but also significantly cut pollution.” Rep. Jesus "Chuy" Garcia focused on public health implications: “The need to reduce carbon emissions is a matter of public health.” Rep. Delia Ramirez emphasized legislative efforts towards sustainability: “I advocated for legislation to move Illinois toward a clean future.”

Nina Idemudia from the Center for Neighborhood Technology stated their ongoing commitment: "Since our founding in 1978, CNT has aimed to foster more just, inclusive, and sustainable infrastructure development."

Currently, nearly 70 percent of Chicago residents live in multifamily buildings without dedicated parking spaces, making regular EV charging challenging. Moreover, 70 percent of public charging stations are concentrated in just three Community Areas.

The Charge Up Chicago project seeks to address these gaps by installing charging stations at strategic locations such as Midway International Airport cell phone lot, Chicago Public Library locations, and various Community Based Organizations.

The project is led by a coalition comprising City of Chicago departments, Center for Neighborhood Technology, OAI Inc., local CBOs, and other partners.